The WBA may have no choice but to reinforce its long-standing order after Rolando “Rolly” Romero’s latest negotiations collapsed without a deal. Shakhram Giyasov has waited nearly three years for his mandatory shot.
During that time, Romero explored a fight with Manny Pacquiao for months despite the ongoing situation.
When that fell away after Pacquiao moved toward a rematch with Floyd Mayweather this September, attention quickly shifted to WBO champion Devin Haney.
Those talks also unraveled overnight following a social media exchange that briefly raised hopes of a unification.
With the alternatives fading again, the ordered fight is back in play.
However, barring an agreement between two champions, there’s no other way Romero can get an exception to avoid Giyasov.
Three Years Waiting
WBN reached out to Giyasov and his team, who are finally ready to speak out against what has become a prolonged disregard for a title stipulation.
“I’m waiting for my chance,” Giyasov exclusively told World Boxing News. “I’ve been the mandatory challenger for almost three years now, but he hasn’t agreed yet.
“I think it’s just a matter of time. I’ll definitely get my chance.”
The WBA has already ordered Romero to face the Uzbek contender once. The mandatory committee is now expected to revisit the order following the failed negotiations.
Each time Romero’s focus moved elsewhere, the mandatory obligation was left unresolved in pursuit of bigger options.
At 17-0, Giyasov is one of the danger men in the division. The longer Romero leaves it, the more the possibility arises that Giyasov could get a vacant title shot.
“It will be as it should be. Everything is going according to Allah’s plan. I’m not afraid of anything. And I’m ready to fight him, but he’s not.”
No More Side Roads
Romero’s pursuit of bigger-name options has certainly kept the fight on hold. The Pacquiao route stalled. The Haney discussions didn’t materialize, and other avenues have been exhausted.
That leaves the belt and the standing order.
“He’s just avoiding me, that’s all.”
Giyasov says he is ready to move as soon as the fight is confirmed.
“I hope he finally accepts the fight with me and doesn’t act cowardly.”
Asked when he expects to return, he answered plainly: “As soon as he schedules the fight with Rolly, right away.”
Giyasov believes the next move now rests with the WBA.
If Romero cannot secure another exemption, the sanctioning body would have to either push through the defense or consider relieving ‘Rolly’ of the title.
After nearly three years of delay, the margin for further postponement appears thin.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
